Meditation promotes wakefulness and relaxation
Meditation promotes wakefulness and relaxation
Researchers at Sydney University and the Norwegian University of Science and Technology have conducted a study which shows that brain waves are positively altered during meditation in those who have practiced for a long time.
Ilchi Lee is a longtime practitioner of Dahn yoga and forms of meditation which he believes help people tap into the true potential of their brains. Results of this study may support his theories.
For the study, a team of scientists measured brain activity in individuals while they meditated and found that theta waves, which are indicative of deep sleep and relaxation, increase in the middle and frontal parts of participants' brains.
In posterior parts of the brain, the researchers found that alpha waves were present. These waves are associated with wakeful rest.
Authors of the study noted that the kind of relaxation observed during meditation differs from that which occurs during sleep. This means that meditative practices may not only improve relaxation, but also focus and awareness. These aspects are key to spiritual growth, according to Ilchi Lee.
